Happiest Baby On the Block

Harvey Karp, M.D.

The colicky, cranky, crying baby: new parents' biggest bugbear. In his new book, this L.A. pediatrician says the problem may be too much quiet. By re-creating the biological ruckus of the mother's womb, including constant movement and the swooshing sound of blood flow, you can set off any baby's "calming reflex." Follow the "five S's," says Karp: 1) Swaddle the baby (using Karp's special tight technique); 2) place the baby on his side or stomach; 3) shush him loudly; 4) swing or bounce him rhythmically; and 5) give him something to suck on. Even dads can do it. --By Sora Song